The Contribution of Sufi Darveshes

Sufism and the Contribution of Sufi Darveshes:

"At various times, hundreds of Sufi darvesh (saints) and their followers came to the Indian subcontinent. They spread Islam in various cities and regions. The contributions of the Sufis to the intellectual and moral development of Muslims were more lasting and effective than military conquerors and ruling classes. Besides their religious devotion and missionary work, they deeply influenced the human psyche and made Islam attractive. 
The origin of Sufism can be traced to the early days of Islam, but its substantial spread occurred gradually. Over time, Sufis came to India and propagated their mystical practices through various means.
Introduction to Sufism:
The eternal desire to know the Supreme Truth has existed within humanity for ages. Therefore, people have been engaged in spiritual quests throughout the ages. In Islam, this pursuit is known as Sufism. Sufism is a path in Islam where one seeks the love of the Creator through intense meditation, prayer, and self-improvement. The intense love for the Creator leads to the elevation of one's soul. 
Professor Massignone states that Sufism, or the mystic movement, began as an extra-strict way of life for the earliest Muslims. After the end of the caliphate of the fourth Khalifa of Islam, Hazrat Ali (RA), Sufism became more prominent. At this time, some scholars, inspired by the ideals of the Prophet and the early caliphs, embarked on this path.
The word "Sufi" is generally associated with the names of the early Muslim ascetics and hermits. They are believed to be the first Sufis. Their passion for the Supreme Truth and their spiritual purity are the essence of Sufism.
The First Sufi Practitioners:
The word "Sufi" is derived from the Arabic word "Sufa," which means a couch or a woolen garment. According to some, Sufis were initially called Sufis because they wore woolen garments as their distinctive attire.
Some believe that the term "Sufi" comes from "Ahl al-Suffa," which refers to a group of about 500 companions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who lived in the Suffa of the Prophet's mosque in Medina. Their life closely resembled that of the early Sufis.
In the view of some scholars, "Sufi" originates from the Arabic term "Suf," meaning pure, and they believe that Sufis were the custodians of purity in character.
Sufi is considered a branch of Islam that focuses on spiritual purification and intense devotion to Allah.
In the view of modern scholars, the word "Sufi" has its roots in the Greek word "sarkos," which means passionate love for knowledge.
Although the concept of Sufism existed in the early days, it was not well-organized. However, some early figures made notable contributions:
Hasan of Basra: He is known as one of the early Sufis, famous for his profound meditation and devotion. He was deeply conscious of the fear of Allah, and sin was never a temptation for him.
Kufa Sufi: Abu Hashim, who was a vegetarian and a wandering ascetic, is known as a Kufa Sufi. He renounced the throne and led an ascetic life.
Rabia of Basra: She was the first known female Sufi saint and led a very disciplined and selfless life. She once said that Allah's love had so consumed her that she had no love or hatred left for anyone else.
Bayazid Bostami: He is famous for his saying, "Pure love by denying one’s own self."
In the early stage, the Sufism primarily emphasized the fear of Allah and the Day of Judgment. However, over time, there was a shift towards establishing a connection with Allah through the medium of love."